Related Podcast

Maori Development spokesperson Kelvin Davis says the decision by the six to ask the party for a waiver was a show of strength, unity and confidence in their ability to retain their seats.

In 2014 Labour held Hauraki Waikato, Ikaroa Rawhiti, and Te Tai Tonga, won Te Taitokerau from Mana's Hone Harawira and took back Tamaki Makaurau and Te Tai Hauauru after the retirement of the Maori Party's Sir Pita Sharples and Dame Tariana Turia respectively.

Mr Davis says that showed Maori consider Labour is the preferred political party to address Maori issues.

The stategy this election is to show how the Maori Party has failed Maori during nine years of being tethered to National’s waka.

The MPs will also campaign hard for Maori to give Labour their party vote, because a Labour-led Government will have a strong Maori voice about the cabinet table.

Labour leader Andrew Little says he is confident the Maori electorate MPs will win their seats.